Mena Massoud cast as Aladdin in Disney live-action remake

This photo taken on August 13, 2015 shows the Genie figurine from the film 'Aladdin' in Adventureland park at Disneyland Paris in Marne-la-Vallee. AFP PHOTO / BERTRAND GUAY (Photo credit should read BERTRAND GUAY/AFP/Getty Images)

By
Natalie Dreier, Cox Media Group National Content Desk

UPDATE: Disney announced the cast for its upcoming live-action remake of “Aladdin” Saturday on Twitter.

Mena Massoud announced as Aladdin, Naomi Scott as Jasmine, and Will Smith as Genie in live-action Aladdin! #D23Expo

Guy Ritchie started trying to find his Aladdin in a global casting call in March. So far 2,000 actors and actresses have read for the hero and his love interest Jasmine, The Hollywood Reporter reported.

One star has apparently already signed on for the role of Genie, originally made famous by Robin Williams. Will Smith was in talks on to play the magic man, Deadline reported in April. Ritchie did not confirm or deny the rumor when he was asked in May about Smith’s alleged role, E! News reported. Those in the know at the studio said they’re looking for someone known to play Jafar, the villain, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

As for Jasmine, studio sources say two actresses are in the running: Naomi Scott from the recent “Power Rangers” movie and Tara Sutaria. But the final decision won’t happen until the studio gets its Aladdin, according to The Hollywood Reporter..

Disney is eyeing more live-action remakes of its hit movies. This year, “Mary Poppins: Returns” is scheduled to hit the big screen this December. It is being touted as a sequel to the original film. They’re also working on live-action versions of “Mulan,” “The Lion King” and “Dumbo”